Dominant Performances in Time Trials Earn Knibb and McNulty National Titles and Olympic Spots
The 2024 USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships roared to life on Wednesday as Taylor Knibb and Brandon McNulty emerged victorious in the Elite Time Trials, securing their spots on the Paris Olympic team in the process.
Triathlete Knibb, competing for Trek Factory Racing, surprised herself and the field with a dominant performance on the 33.7-kilometer course in Charleston. Clocking in at 41:54.69, she not only claimed the National Title but also punched her ticket to Paris. The flat course, mirroring the upcoming Olympic circuit, proved to be a perfect match for Knibb's strengths. "The minimal turns allowed me to maintain race pace," she hinted, contrasting it with a more technical course from the previous year.
Despite Knibb's stellar ride, the competition was fierce. Kristen Faulkner (EF Education-Cannondale) pushed her hard, trailing closely throughout the race before ultimately finishing second. Veteran cyclist Amber Neben (Lake Forest, Calif.) secured third place, showcasing her experience.
Brandon McNulty (UAE Team Emirates) dominated the Elite Men's Time Trial, battling through a challenging headwind in the final stretch to secure victory in 37:42.08. This win marks McNulty's second National Title and, more importantly, his nomination for the Paris Olympics.
"National titles are always special," McNulty conveyed, emphasizing the added significance of securing his Olympic berth.
Tyler Stites (Project Echelon Racing) put up a valiant effort, finishing a close second at 58 seconds back. Neilson Powless (EF Education-Easypost) secured the third podium position, showcasing his expertise in wet conditions as rain began to fall during the final wave.
Knibb and McNulty's Time Trial victories set the stage for a thrilling National Championships with more races to come. Their performances not only solidify their exceptional talent but also bolster the strength of American cycling as they head towards the Paris Games.
Knibb Stuns in Elite Women's Race
Triathlete Knibb, competing for Trek Factory Racing, surprised herself and the field with a dominant performance on the 33.7-kilometer course in Charleston. Clocking in at 41:54.69, she not only claimed the National Title but also punched her ticket to Paris. The flat course, mirroring the upcoming Olympic circuit, proved to be a perfect match for Knibb's strengths. "The minimal turns allowed me to maintain race pace," she hinted, contrasting it with a more technical course from the previous year.
Despite Knibb's stellar ride, the competition was fierce. Kristen Faulkner (EF Education-Cannondale) pushed her hard, trailing closely throughout the race before ultimately finishing second. Veteran cyclist Amber Neben (Lake Forest, Calif.) secured third place, showcasing her experience.
McNulty Claims Second Olympic Berth in Elite Men's Race
Brandon McNulty (UAE Team Emirates) dominated the Elite Men's Time Trial, battling through a challenging headwind in the final stretch to secure victory in 37:42.08. This win marks McNulty's second National Title and, more importantly, his nomination for the Paris Olympics.
"National titles are always special," McNulty conveyed, emphasizing the added significance of securing his Olympic berth.
Tyler Stites (Project Echelon Racing) put up a valiant effort, finishing a close second at 58 seconds back. Neilson Powless (EF Education-Easypost) secured the third podium position, showcasing his expertise in wet conditions as rain began to fall during the final wave.
Knibb and McNulty's Time Trial victories set the stage for a thrilling National Championships with more races to come. Their performances not only solidify their exceptional talent but also bolster the strength of American cycling as they head towards the Paris Games.
Hybrid Bikes for Urban Adventures in Australia
Powerful Cruiser Motorcycles in US
Which Trek Slash+ Model is Right for You?
2025 Ducati Panigale V4 and V4 S: Prices, Features, and Specifications Revealed